Dubai
United Arab Emirates, Asia
A desert mirage made real, superlatives built on sand and ambition.
A fast-built city on the edge of the Arabian Desert, known for record-setting towers, sprawling malls, and beach resorts. The 830-metre Burj Khalifa anchors a skyline that rose from sand in a few decades.
Our honest take
Dubai is polarizing: either you love the over-the-top luxury or it feels soulless. The old souks and Creek area have genuine character. The malls and skyscrapers are impressive once. Best as a 3-day stopover, not a week-long destination.
Why go
- Burj Khalifa at sunset is genuinely awe-inspiring
- Desert safari with dune bashing is pure fun
- Tax-free shopping if you're buying electronics or gold
Skip if you can
- Dubai Frame, underwhelming for the price
- The Palm Jumeirah monorail, slow, expensive, boring views
- Miracle Garden, artificial flowers in the desert, Instagram bait
Things to do
Where locals eat
Spit-roasted chicken or lamb shaved into flatbread with garlic sauce and pickles, the real Dubai street food
Al Mallah on 2nd December St (Satwa) or Aroos Damascus, not the mall food courts
Yemeni-style slow-smoked lamb over fragrant rice cooked in a tandoor pit
Maraheb Mandi in Al Karama or Yemen Kitchen in Deira, portions are enormous
Shredded pastry over stretchy cheese soaked in sugar syrup with pistachios, served hot
Feras Aldiyafah on Sheikh Zayed Rd or any Levantine sweet shop in Deira old souk
Minced lamb koobideh or juicy joojeh (chicken) with saffron rice and grilled tomato
Al Ustad Special Kebab in Bur Dubai (open since 1978, no frills, consistently good)
Costs
Per person, per day on the ground, lodging, food, local transport and activities. Excludes international flights (see Getting there).
Burj Khalifa: $40-100. Desert safari: $50-150. Brunch: $80-200.
Official pricingGetting there
Where to stay
Near Burj Khalifa, walkable, business district
Beach access, restaurants, younger crowd
Old Dubai, souks, budget hotels, authentic food
Good to know
- Extremely safe, near-zero street crime
- Dress modestly in malls and public areas (shoulders/knees covered)
- No public displays of affection
- Alcohol only in licensed venues (hotels, bars)
- Zero tolerance for drugs, even trace amounts
Prices, visa rules, and transport details may change. Always verify with official sources before booking. Last updated: July 2026.